Helen Hayes Competition for Runners and Wheelchair Racers Returns

Published on July 23, 2014

The Helen Hayes Hospital Classic 10k Race & Fun Run, an event to provide runners and wheelchair racers the opportunity to compete, is scheduled for October 5. The event is open to individuals of all abilities and features start and finish lines on the hospital grounds. The 10k race is set to begin at 9:30 am, followed by the Fun Run at 11:00 am.

Helen Hayes states in a recent news release that the HHH Classic Race debut in 1983, promoting fitness and competition among runners and wheelchair racers. During the next 15 years, the event expanded into one of the metropolitan area’s largest and most anticipated events, the release notes. Since the last racer crossed the finish line in 1997, many of the hospital’s staff have vowed to bring the event back.

The 2014 HHH Classic Race will follow the same course through Haverstraw and Stony Point, while integrating new aspects. These include racers using handcycles and exoskeletons, a family fun activity zone, live entertainment, and opportunities to cheer on race participants.

The release reports that in addition to Top Overall Awards for male and female runners, wheelers, and handcyclists, awards will also be presented in seven different age categories, wheeler, and handcyclist divisons. Fun Run participants will receive ribbons and t-shirts will be provided to all preregistered participants.

Additionally, the release states that this year’s race is being named in honor and memory of the first HHH Classic Race founding organizer and race sponsor Niles M. Davies, Jr, who recently passed. Davies’ support of Helen Hayes Hospital and the Helen Hayes Hospital Foundation inspired the return of the Classic. The event’s proceeds will benefit the Helen Hayes Hospital Foundation, which supports a wide variety of rehabilitation programs, services, and equipment.

Matthew Castelluccio, race director, emphasizes the organization’s excitement in bringing the HHH Classic Race back after a 17-year hiatus: “We look forward to welcoming back lots of Classic sponsors andracers and introducing the Classic to a new generation of participants. Please consider volunteering your efforts, racing and inviting your family and friends to participate,” Castelluccio says.